Associate, STEM Center, District 13

About NYC FIRST 

NYC FIRST is building out a new STEM-based civic infrastructure that broadens resources, delivers opportunity and sets young people on pathways to success academically and professionally.  This vision is centered on a network of STEM Centers, which centralize valuable resources, including computing and software, fabrication equipment, and expert and experienced staff and mentors.  For over 20 years, NYC FIRST has inspired and empowered K-12 students from diverse communities across New York City each year to engage with STEM and robotics in meaningful and joyful ways.  We create learning experiences that encourage young people to think critically and creatively and to persevere, driving towards excellence and equity.

STEM Center Details 

Located in downtown Brooklyn's One Clinton, a new mixed-use building near Cadman Plaza West, the STEM Center in District 13 occupies nearly 7,000 square feet. It neighbors a large Brooklyn Public Library branch and features two classrooms, a commons area, a wood/metal shop, and several small offices. NYC FIRST is partnering with School District 13 leadership to deliver STEM programming to K-12 students, with a particular focus on 4th and 6th graders.

Associate Responsibilities

This role is part of the inaugural team launching the new STEM Center in District 13. It will foster a vibrant community that brings together STEM experts, novices, and enthusiasts.

Specifically, the Associate, STEM Center - District 13 will be responsible for:

• Help lead a range of STEM-centric activities and workshops, and LEGO robotics in particular, for elementary and middle school students and their teachers.
• Under the direction of the STEM Center Senior Manager, help administer field trips and professional development for District 13 teachers, which may include reaching out to schools, conducting school site-visits, collecting documentation and making reservations, among other duties
• Create a positive youth development environment in which young people and their families feel welcome and comfortable in the space.
• Work closely with the STEM Center team to help plan, prepare and run classes, activities and workshops.
• Create and teach new lessons in collaboration with the D13 STEM Center team as needed and share those activities with others, including workshops that are STEM-focused and related to FIRST programs.
• On occasion, go to local schools or community-based organizations for outreach or programs.
• Help maintain the safety and cleanliness of the STEM Center, including the management of robotics kits and other learning materials.
• As needed, and under the direction of the STEM Center Manager, participate in evaluation and research activities.
• Ensure the highest safety and youth protection standards.

Required Qualifications 

Applicants for this position should meet the following qualifications:

• High school diploma, equivalent, or higher degree required.
• At least two years (2) of instruction experience, preferably in a STEM, youth development or K-12 education setting.
• Enthusiasm for STEM education (including robotics) or related fields, with demonstrable experience in robotics, design & fabrication, programming, and circuitry.
• Strong customer service skills with a problem-solving approach.
• Ability and eagerness to learn continuously.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage and inspire students from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to build rapport with children, families, teachers, and other community members.
• Commitment to upholding NYC FIRST's safety and youth protection standards.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion through ongoing development, modeling inclusive behaviors, and proactively managing bias.
• Coding experience preferred.
• Experience teaching FIRST robotics, FIRST LEGO League, or FIRST Tech Challenge a plus.
• Fluency in Spanish, Arabic, or Haitian-Creole a plus.
• Proficiency in Google Suite (Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Calendar) required.
• Proficiency in Adobe Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop) preferred.

Additional Information:

• This is a Full-time, in-person role at the STEM Center during operating hours (Monday-Friday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM).
• Legal authorization to work in the United States is required.

NYC FIRST provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; four weeks of paid vacation time per year; paid federal holidays.

Please send a thoughtful cover letter and resume to careers@nycfirst.org with the subject line Associate, STEM Center, Bronx.  No phone calls please.

NYC FIRST is an equal opportunity employer.  We invite people of all backgrounds to apply.  We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran or military status.